Root spray, to use or not to use?
Root touch-up sprays have become popular as a quick fix to camouflage roots or gray hairs between salon visits. It sounds like the ideal solution: a quick spray and you're good to go without visible roots. But is it really that ideal? In this blog, we discuss the potential downsides of root touch-up sprays and why you might be better off choosing a different solution.
How does a root touch-up spray work?
Root touch-up spray is a spray-on product designed to temporarily hide your roots. It can also come in other forms, such as powders, creams, or sticks, but the spray was the first on the market. It seems like a quick and convenient way to hide your roots or gray hairs and postpone your salon visit. But will your hairdresser be happy about it?
The disadvantages of root touch-up spray
While root touch-up spray may seem like the perfect solution at first glance, there are several disadvantages you need to consider:
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Transfer and stains: A root touch-up spray can transfer, causing stains on your clothes or other surfaces. This can be especially annoying if you don't have time to brush it out properly or accidentally apply it incorrectly.
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Hair dehydration: Many root touch-up sprays contain harsh chemicals that can dry out your hair. This can negatively affect the long-term health of your hair.
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Difficult to remove: The product can be difficult to wash out of your hair, especially if you use it regularly, it can build up.
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Hair dye does not take: A common problem with using root touch-up spray is that hair dye struggles to take, or doesn't take well, especially in the areas where you've applied the spray product. This is because the spray forms a barrier that makes it difficult for the dye to penetrate.
Hair dye does not take, why is that?
To ensure that a root touch-up spray doesn't just 'blow away' from your hair, it is often full of chemicals and is therefore aggressive for your hair and scalp. These product residues accumulate in your hair. Hair dye has a very difficult, if not impossible, time penetrating this. The roots often don't take the hair dye at all, and in the lengths, where the spray spreads automatically through combing or brushing, the color often comes out lighter. Often, the 'blame' is immediately, but incorrectly, placed on the dye. There is nothing wrong with the dye; the root touch-up product forms a solid block.
What can hairdressers do?
Always be aware of the use of root touch-up products! If your client comes into your salon and their roots are not as visible as usual, chances are they've used a root touch-up product. If the damage is already done and you are about to color your client's hair, wash it very thoroughly at least 3 times and explain that the color may not take as well as usual. This way, no misunderstandings arise about the end result.
Root touch-up spray, to use or not to use?
While root touch-up spray can be handy for emergencies, it's not the best choice for long-term use. The build-up of product residue, hair dehydration, the risk of stains, and the problems that arise with coloring make it less attractive as a long-term solution. And, if we may speak on behalf of hairdressers: 'Don't do it!' Consider alternatives such as semi-permanent dyes or a toner, and let your hairdresser do it! That way, you are assured of a more sustainable and healthier result!
Conclusion
Use root touch-up spray in moderation and be aware of its drawbacks. If you're looking for a healthier and longer-lasting solution, it's better to visit your hairdresser for a professional color treatment. Also, consider avoiding root touch-up spray if you regularly color your hair, to prevent complications with the dye.
Do you have experience with root touch-up spray? Share your experiences in the comments!
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